Gustav von Kahr

After studying law in Munich, Kahr first worked as an administrative lawyer. In 1902, he transferred to the Bavarian Ministry of the Interior. During World War I, he climbed the political ladder, becoming President of Upper Bavaria. In 1920, he became Bavaria’s Minister-President. He established Bavaria’s reputation as the German Reich’s “Ordnungszelle” (bastion of order) by introducing Einwohnerwehrs (citizens’ militias) and dissolving the workers’ and soldiers’ councils. After the 1921 Law for the Protection of the Republic was enacted, stipulating the dissolution of the Einwohnerwehrs, he resigned. At the end of September 1923, Kahr was appointed General State Commissioner and granted dictatorial powers. Shortly after taking office, he declared a state of emergency in Bavaria. During the Beer Hall Putsch, Kahr defied the putsch leaders’ expectations by working against it instead of participating in it. The Bavarian state police force managed to put an end to the putsch. In February 1924, Kahr stepped down from his political offices. During the Night of the Long Knives, Kahr was murdered by members of the SS.